My New Chapter: A “portfolio life” can be very rewarding
Zabeen Hirji
Retirement Disruptor | Executive Advisor | Board Director | Connector | Speaker | Writer | Former Chief Human Resources Officer, RBC | Proud Canadian
#NewChapter
#lifelonglearning
I’m often asked: "What does your new chapter look like?" Well, I can certainly say there's no such thing as a typical day, but today was an example of a great one. It was about connecting, accelerating ideas to action, learning and inspiration.
First up? A call with a Deloitte colleague to talk "Future of Work" for clients we work with in the public sector and various business sectors. FoW is an issue of great importance, and understanding and acting on both the opportunities and challenges is key to ensuring inclusive growth and prosperity.
Next? Emily Mills. I was her mentor through the CivicAction DiverseCity Fellows program. Now...we learn from each other. Today she nudged me to share more stories and connect at a human level - hence this post.
Next up, Sarah Chapman (Deloitte) and I met with Joe Wong (University of Toronto), to learn about the Reach Project he runs. It’s changing lives and building globally fluent and responsible future leaders. Joe and Sarah inspire me to more boldly pursue issues that matter and are close to my heart!
Later, Meghan Moore (Loran Scholars) and I talked about why organizations need to reflect the diversity of the people they serve, and how to accelerate that. Change requires strong leadership and deliberate actions.
Then it was off to CivicAction, where the team was busy preparing for Summit 2019: “Canvas” coming up on April 29. I was inspired by the power of people united by common purpose!
My last stop was the Pearson Centre’s Progressive Leadership gala, where the award recipients spoke about leading in turbulent times: We need to reach across the aisle, instead of an “either with me or against me” mindset, and live our values of respect and inclusion.
The common threads throughout the day? We can all be change makers, regardless of the sector we’re in or our role or title. Unlocking human potential is key to building inclusive prosperity, always learning is a way of life, not an episodic event and collaboration and co-creation are the way forward.
Let me end where my day began. The #FutureofWork is here. My portfolio life is but one example.
President & CEO, Silvertrust Media, Transformation Institute, Afroglobal Television & Destiny Harvest
5 年It’s amazing to see, Zabeen, that you are accelerating when I thought you would be pausing and smelling more roses. ~ Your energy, vitality and love for our collective performance in the next work ?? world and shared social space is remarkable. ~ Wishing you all the best ?? ______///
You are such an inspiring leader, Zabeen!
Founder, How She Hustles / WXN Top 100 Canada's Most Powerful Women / 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women
5 年Love this post Zabeen Hirji. Great to get a glimpse into what 'the hustle' looks like for you as a seasoned civic leader. Taking notes! And mentioned this post today to Julia (Wilson) Deans. Look forward to reading more. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this journey.
Chief Financial Officer at TD
5 年Learning from each other. Very rewarding indeed. Thanks for sharing!
I help women feeling stuck and unfulfilled ignite their inner spark and embrace a life of purpose and passion ?? Certified Life Coach | Cheerleader You Didn't Know You Needed
5 年Thank you for sharing. A glimpse at your day is a great example of the future of work. If we define work as a contribution to common wealth and knowledge, than our work spreads out beyond one's office or job. Truly lifelong. Like learning that comes with it.